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Scoliosis is an abnormal curving of the spine. Your spine is your backbone. It runs straight down your back. Everyone’s spine naturally curves a bit. But people with scoliosis have a spine that curves too much. The spine might look like the letter C or S.

Most people with idiopathic scoliosis do not need treatment. But you should still be checked by a doctor about every 6 months.

If you are still growing, your doctor might recommend a back brace. A back brace prevents further curving. There are many different types of braces. What kind you get depends on the size and location of your curve. Your health care provider will pick the best one for you and show you how to use it. Back braces can be adjusted as you grow.

Back braces work best in people over age 10. Braces do not work for those with congenital or neuromuscular scoliosis.

Sometimes, surgery is needed:

Scoliosis surgery involves correcting the curve as much as possible.

The spine bones are held in place with one or two metal rods. The rods are held down with hooks and screws until the bone heals together.

Surgery may be done with a cut through the back, belly area, or beneath the ribs.

After surgery, you may need to wear a brace for a while to keep the spine still.

You may need surgery if the spine curve is severe or getting worse very quickly. The surgeon may want to wait until all your bones stop growing, but this is not always possible.

Scoliosis treatment may also include:

Emotional support. Some children, especially teens, may be self-conscious when using a back brace.

Physical therapy and other specialists to help explain the treatments and make sure the brace fits correctly.

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